$BTC Bitcoin ($BTC) is the world's first decentralized digital currency, created in 2009 by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, leveraging blockchain technology to record transactions on a public, immutable ledger. This eliminates the need for central authorities like banks, offering a censorship-resistant and transparent financial system.

Often dubbed "digital gold" due to its limited supply of 21 million coins, Bitcoin functions as both a store of value and a medium of exchange. Its price is highly volatile, influenced by factors like institutional adoption (e.g., Bitcoin ETFs), macroeconomic trends, and increasing interest from corporate treasuries. While some envision it replacing traditional currencies, others see it as a high-risk asset with significant growth potential.